acne,coconut oil

Acne is an embarrassing and unsightly condition that many teenagers and young adults experience. However, a number of older adults suffer from acne as well. When the openings of the sebum glands become infected, the pores become clogged with bacteria, which leads to blackheads and whiteheads.

While there are a number of treatments out there for acne, more and more people are turning to natural remedies for skin health. Coconut oil for acne has proven to be effective, and there are several reasons why this is the case.

How Does Coconut Oil Work to Get Rid of Acne?

First, coconut oil is high in two very powerful antimicrobial agents, lauric acid and capric acid. These acids are naturally present in breast milk and keep babies from developing infections. When these acids are applied topically, they are naturally convertered into monolaurin and monocaprin. These substances take the place of the protective layer of acid on the skin. Many people who are constantly washing their faces to get rid of acne have unintentionally gotten rid of the protective acid layer, which is why coconut oil can help to restore natural moisture balance.

Vitamin E is also abundant in coconut oil. This vitamin keeps your sebum glands functioning properly, which tackles the underlying cause of acne. The vitamin can also reduce hormonal reactions that can sometimes cause the sebum glands to flare up and produce breakouts.

Coconut oil for acne is also beneficial because the oil is a natural anti-inflammatory ingredient. Coconut oil takes away the natural swelling that acne causes and can heal open wounds that are the result of acne. The oil is also effective when it comes to raising the body’s metabolic rate. The higher the body’s metabolism, the more balanced the hormones will be, which will lead to much less breakouts and blemishes. A speedy metabolism also makes for quicker healing time.

Choosing the Right Coconut Oil

It’s important to get the highest quality of coconut oil available in order for the treatment to work. Organic coconut oil with no fillers is best, and can be found at health food and some grocery stores. Coconut oil can be applied directly to the face or even used to prepare food in for the purpose of achieving clearer skin.

How to Apply Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin as a cleanser or mask. Leave the oil on the face for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water and wash with a mild, all-natural cleanser. Also, in severe cases of acne, coconut oil should be combined with another remedy, like tea tree or lavender oil, to be most effective. Apply a little coconut oil to a cotton ball along with a few drops of essential oil and use as a toner after cleansing the face to fight acne for hours in between facial cleansing.